The dowel method will work good so long as it's a good hard wood. Some of those available will still twist a bit. So look at them carefully. I've had one suggestion out here to replace the brass torque rod wire with an aluminum one. They are available at some hobby stores, but the best place to check is some place that does welding. Depending on the alloy they can be reasonably stiff. And they can be shaped with light heat from a torch. I haven't looked for any yet, but plan to on the next TF model I attempt.
Don't think there's enough room for any type of dual push rods as E*nealio suggested, but it's a thought!!! [&:]